Type-distributing machine.



PATENTED FEB. 26, 1907.

mp1s. RAY. TYPE DISTRIBUTING MACHINE.

APPLICATION FILED FEB.'19,1901.

5 sums-4115M 1.

1n: NQRRIS PETERS 5a., wumuonm. u. c.

No. 845,261. PATENTBD FEB. 26, 1907. D. B. RAY.

TYPE DISTRIBUTING MACHINE.

APPLIOATION rum) r2119, 1901 6 SHEETS-SHEET 2.

PATBNTBD FEB. 26, 1907.

D. RAY. 4 TYPE DISTRIBUTING MACHINE.

l I i ll] I I l I l I r I MA/WXW:

No. 845,261. PATBNTBD FEB; 26,1907.

' .D.-B.VR'AY.Q TYPE DISTRIBUTING. MACHINE.

APPLIGATION FILED P313519, 1 901.

' 6 SKEETS-SHEET 4.

No. 845,261. PATENTBI PEB. 26, 190-1.

D. B. RAY. TYPE DISTRIBUTING MAGHINE.

APPL'IOATIOR FILED FEB. 19,1901.

5 sums-51mm W QAPA 1 4 v g v MM 22 invirnn srnrns DAVID BRAINERD BAY, OF NEW YORK, N. Y.

TYPE-DISTRIBUTING MACHINE.

Specification of Letters Patent.

Patented Feb. 26, 1907.

Application filed February 19,1901. Serial No. 47,932.

To all 7071 0711, it Tit/ concern:

Be it known that I, DAVID BRAINERD RAY, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of New York, Manhattan borough, in the county and State of New York, have invented certain new and useful Improvements in Type-Distributing Machines, which improvements are fully set forth in the following specification and accompanying drawings, and in the latter Figure 1 is a plan view of a type-distributing 1r achine constructed in accordance with my invention. Fig. 2 is a front elevation view of said machine. Fig. 3 is an end elevation view of said machine looking in the direction of the open front of the type-holder which I employ. Fig. 4 is a detail end elevation view looking in the direction of the closed hack of the type-holder which I earn ploy. Fig. 5 is a transverse section as along the line d d of Fig. 1. Fig. 5 is a detail perspective view illustrating more clearly the openings in the classifying-channels through which the type pass in the final distribution thereof, one side portion ofthe channel be ing removed. Fig. 6 is a detail view, partly in sect-ion as along the line a a of Fig. 1, the same illustrating certain features of my invention essential in connection with the separation of the type into classes or divisions. Fig. 7 is a cross-section of one of the classifying-channels as on the line b b of Fig. 1. Fig. 8 is a view in perspective of one of the internediate channels which I employ. Fig. 9 is a detail perspective view of the typeholder which I make use of, the platform supporting said holder, and certain parts lo cated adjacent to said holder, one of the side walls of the latter being well broken away to disclose the fulcrum 011 which the type successively bear and act in the practical operation of my 11" achine. Fig. 10 is a central longitudinal section of one of the storage receptacles or magazines which I make use of, the section eeing taken as on the line 0 c of Fig. 1. Fig. ii is a frag rentary view of another form of interrediate channel. Fig. 12 is a horizontal section of the type-holder as along the line 6 e of Fig. 2. Fig. 13 is a detail front elevation view of the type-holder on an enlarged scale.

Throughout the several views of the accompanying drawings si'itilar reference-nunterals represent like parts.

This invention relates to improvements in mechanical structures of that class commonly known as type-distributing machines, the same being utilized for the purpose of sorting and storing in 11". agazine's or the like type that have been used in the process of printing.

The object of this invention is to provide a type-distributing machine which shall be simple, novel, and decidedly inexpensive as regards construction, durable and efiicient in operation, and which shall possess certain well-defned advantages over prior analogous structures.

The invention consists in the employment of certain novel parts, in the novel disposition and arrangement of the various parts, in certain combinations of the latter, and in certain details of construction, all of which will be specifically referred to hereinafter and set forth in the appended claims.

Certain of the more important features embraced in my invention may be presented in a general way as follows: the employment of a type-holder and a classifying-channel below the holder, the holder being arranged obliquely to the channel and having an opening coinciding therewith and moving the successive lowermost type of a line of type in the holder so that it will fall through the opening into the classifying-channel; dividing or separating the type into classes or divisions according to thickness; sorting the classified type and arranging the same in storage receptacles or magazines preparatory to setting for printing purposes, the employment of classifying-channels of a width less than the length of a type along which the type shall travel lengthwise; providing each of the classifying-channels with a series of openings to permit the escape of the type from such channel, the said openings being each elongated and of a length less than the length of the type to be distributed, and the locating at each of said openings of a device whereby all type of a particular kind will escape from said channel by way of only one of said openings, the stem or body of each of said type being suitably shaped to permit this result; causing type to duly move along type-channels by tapping or jarring said channels or imparting thereto a tremulous or vibratory motion; arranging two or more series of classitying-channels common to all above delivery-channels in such a manner that the open ings of several of the former may feed into one of the latter.

In the process of distribution a line of type ICC IIO

is placed in a type-holder in such a position that the type as they are moved out of the holder will fall into a channel. They are placed at an angle with the channel, which is inclined. The lowest type is moved out of the line by an ejector. It is moved around a center of motion by the ejector until it is in line with the channel, so that when released it will fall into the channel and slide downward. A regulating or controlling device at the point or place in the holder where the type are moved out of the line to the channel acts as a holdback on the type and prevents more than one type at a time from moving out of the line.

I divide or separate the type into classes or divisions according to thickness to facilitate distribution. I first separate the spaces used between words. I form an opening in the bottom of the main classifying-channel near the receiving end thereof, which opening is of less length than the length of the spaces, and the latter are of less length than the type. Accordingly movement of each space along said channel until its center of gravity is carried somewhat beyond the near edge of said opening will result in a downward tilting movement of such space, and the same will fall through said opening to and into any suitable receptacle which may be used for the purpose of receiving it; but no type will pass through said opening in a like manner, for the reason that when the latters center of gravity shall have been carried to or somewhat beyond the near edge of said opening its distant end, owing to the length of the type being greater than that of .the space, will have been carried fully be yond the distant edge of said opening, and consequently said type will be prevented from undergoing the downward tilting movement above referred to and will only move onward along said channel.

With a view to separating the ty e into classes or divisions according to thic rness I place one or more branch classifying-channelsparallel, or nearly so, with the main classitying-channel and communicating therewith in such a manner that the type may pass along said main channel or into said branch channel or channels according to the thickness of such type. At the point of communication of each branch channel with the main channel I arrange a diverting device for diverting the type from the main channel into the respective classifying-channels. Taking the diverting device located nearest the receiving end of the main classifyingchannel, this is raised above the bottom of said main channel far enough to allow all typeexcept the thicker ones to pass under it and go on down said main channel, but it I will deflect or divert the thicker ones which Having divided the type into two or more classes, I then sort the type of each class by letter, the means for this sorting or distributing being openings in the bottom of the channel, each opening correspohding in shape to the shape of a particular type. To this end the subordinate or classifying channels leading from the main channel are each provided with a series of suitablyspaced openings along its bottom portion,

the longer axis of said opening being parallel with the axis of the channel. These openings are each of less. length than any of the type and practically correspond with the channel in width, which in turn is approximately the width of a type. Therefore, as the type move along any of the said channels each will at times occupy a position in which one end portion thereof will overbalance the remaining portion thereof and tend to tilt downward through one of said openings unless supported against this action. To thus support said type and allow it to pass over a number of the said openings until it shall reach the opening downward through which it is intended to pass, I employ at each of said openings a projection or analogous medium and notch or otherwise duly shape the stem or body of each type accordingly, as will be hereinafter more fully explained. The reason for the long axis of the sorting-opening being parallel with the channel is as follows: All type are of thesame length, but differ as to breadth and thickness. Pushing type sidewise over a series of openings specially adapted to each type requires complicated mechanism because of the differences in breadth and thickness. (Some type are only one-twelfth of an inch wide and onefiftieth of an inch thick.) When small type are pushed sidewise to the edge of a cross-opening, they will tip half-way over into the wrong opening and lodge there, or if projections are placed along the edge of the opening to hold up the type and prevent it from tipping sidewise, the projections must extend a little more than half the breadth of the type, otherwise the heavier part will overbalance and make it tip. To obviate this, notches corresponding to the projections must be cut more than half-way through the type. Inasmuch as some type are but one-twelfth of an inch broad and onefiftieth of an inch thick, a notch of over half the breadth thereof would weaken it greatly, leaving the shank thereof only between one thirty-sixth and one twenty-fifth broad. This weakens it so that it will easily break. By the use of a narrow channel and by conveying the type lengthwise to the openings adapted for them I can use a shorter projection at the openings than where type are distributed sidewise, so that the type are not weakened by deep-cut notches.

The type as they pass through the respective openings in the classifying-channels are conducted by way of intermediate channels, all of those of a particular kind or letter to their own delivery-channel, a series of such delivery-channels being thus employed, and ordinarily each of the intermediate channels is constructed so that as the type traverse the same each will be given a suitable endwise movement to reverse said type end for end as it enters its particular delivery-channel.f The type pass down the deliverychannels into storage receptacles or maga zines, where they are held in readiness for setting apparatus. The several magazines are each adjusted through the reception of any one type so as to be capable of receiving the next following type.

Having reference to the accompanying drawings, 2 represents a type-holder suitably mounted on a platform 2, arranged on a further platform 2, supported by a table 3. The holder 2 occupies a position diagonally across the opening 3, formed in the platform 2, and by way of which opening com munication is effected between said holder and the main classifying type-channel 4, arranged below said holder and leading therefrom at an inclination.

The holder 2 is here shown as comprising an elongated box-like structure, made up of opposing side walls, a rear closure member connecting said side walls and having an open front, and said holder is provided to contain a line or column of type. The opening 3 is of suitable width to permit the type to pass downwardly flatwise through the same, but is of less length than the type, so that when a type is caused to assume a position lengthwise over it one end of the type will be supported, as by the ledge 3", whle the other end tilts downward through the opening in the passage of the type from the type-holder to the main classifying typechannel 4 below. The ledge 3 serves to prevent the type from rotating on its longitudnal axis during the operation j ust mentioned and insures its proper delivery to the channel 4. I further make use of an ejector for dislodging the lowermost type of the column of type in the type-holder from its normal position and bringing such type properly over the hole or open ng 3 in read. ness to descend through the said opening. This ejector is here shown as pivotally mounted at 4, comprising the members 4c 5, and movable on the fulcrum through the reciprocating movement of the rod 5, which bears in the guides 6, and the movement of said ejector on the fulcrum 4 is such that the member 4 of said ejector swings into and out of the holder 2 at the point 5", and as said member 4 moves into the holder 2 its free end engages the adjacent end of the lowermost type contained in said holder, and accordingly swings or moves said type on the fulcrum 6 and brings such type in due position with respect to the opening 3, as above mentioned.

The ejector member 5 is so connected at its free end with the rod 5, as at 6, as to move freely with said rod, the latter being moved in one direction by the cam 7, fast on the shaft 7, and said shaft bein journale d in the uprights 7 8. As the shaft 7 revolves cam7 moves the rod 5 in one direction, and so moves the ejector, and the return movement of said ejector may be effected in any wellknown and approved manner, as by means of a spring 8".

is a holdback device designed to prevent more than one type at a time from being moved from the typecolumn to alinement with the opening 3. This holdback is here represented as comprisin a spring fastened at one end to the side of the holder 2, while the other end is designed to directly engage the lowermost type in the holder 2 or engage and yieldingly control a gate 9, pivotally or otherwise suitably disposed. Nhen the ejector aforenamed moves the lowermost type on the fulcrum 6, the front end of said type engages the lower end of the holdback 8 and forces it outwardly or away from the holder 2 sufliciently to permit the type to slde or pass under it on its way to alinement with the opening 3. Then the holdback 8 releases that particular type, but holds back all above it from like movement. A corre spondfng result may be had where the gate 9 is employed, the type then engaging the dependng portion. of said gate, and the gate being mounted on oppositely-arranged pivots as 9 or the like.

The main type-channel 4 is supported at one end by the platform 2 immediately be low the holder 2 and leads therefrom at a downward inclination. It primarly receives the type from the holder 2 and later acts 2 ith the channels 10 1.0 as a classifyingchannel wherein the type is separated into divisions or classes. It has an opening 9 near its receiving end, through which the spaces or quadrats used between words fall, and to receive which at the under sf de of the channel 4 any suitable receptacle may be employed. The opening 9 is of less length than any of the spaces used, so that the rear end of each space is supported while the front end thereof tilts downward in the act of falling through the said opening on the part of. said space but the type will not fall through sa'd opening for the reason hereinbefore explained.

1O 10 are minor classifying type-channels arranged parallel with and one at each side of the main channel 4, the said mfnor'channels communicating with the main channel at variable points therealong and beyoi'id the opening 9 from the receiving end of channel 4.

At the point of communication of the minor channel 10 with the main channel 4 I employ a diverter 11, consisting of a piece of metal or other suitable material, the same being fastened within and diagonally across the main channel 4 and elevated sufliciently above the bottom of the channel 4 to permit the passage thereunder of all type save the thickest type, and the latter in their course along the main channel engage the diverter 11 and are thereby diverted from the main channel into the minor channel 10. A corresponding result is had at the point of communication of the minor channel 10 with the main channel 4, where a diverter 11 is located. This diverter 11 corresponds in all essentials with the diverter 11, save that it is elevated above the bottom of the channel 4 sufficiently to permit the passage thereunder of the thinnest type, which continue on down the channel 4, and all type of a medium thickness in their course along the main channel 4 engage the said diverter 11 and are thereby diverted from the channel 4 into the minor channel 10.

The thinnest type pass freely under all diverters, and thus the type which find their way from the holder 2 in to the main channel 4 are separated into three divisions or classes and might be separated into a larger number of divisions or classes by increasing the number of minor channels and diverters used in connection with. the main channel, as will be readily understood.

I further make use of a series of delivery type-channels, as 12, duly supported at one end, as by the rod 12, and each therefrom leading at a downward inclination and terminating at one of a series of magazines 12. These delivery-channels 12 are arranged below the classifying-channels 4 10 10 and substantially at right angles thereto, and each of said cl assifying-channels is provided with a series of suitably-spaced letter sorting openings, here shown as formed in the bottom thereof, and the same are denoted by the numeral 13. The type which find their way into the various classifying-channels are sorted at the 2 said openings 13 and delivered letter by letter or character by character into the intermediate type-channels 13, which lead downward, one from each of said openings, and communicates with one of said deliverychannels. Thus the intermediate channels 13 correspond in number with the deliverychannels 12 and with the openings 13, and of the latter there should be a sufiicient number to take care of the letters of the alphabet, punctuation-marks, and other characters, as desired.

Hereinafter the words negative end as applied to any of the openings 13 will signify that end of each of said openings farthest away from the receiving end of the channel 4.

It is essential that each type as it traverses any of the classifying-channels be restrained from falling through any of the openings 13 except the particular one downward through which it is intended to pass in the operation of my improved machine. To this end I employ a series of spurs or projections 13, located one at each of the openings 13 and extending inwardly from one side of its cooperating type-channel, the upper portion of each registering or alining with fair accuracy with the inner surface of the bottom of such channel. The spurs 13" are variably distanced from the negative ends of the openings 13 as formed in any one of the channels 4 10 10, and the bodies or stems of the type which my machine herein described is designed to sort or distribute are each duly shaped, notched, or recessed according.

13" represents the type, each notched or recessed at its edge, as clearly shown in Fig. 1. That type in channel 10 located nearest the receiving end of said channel is shown as sliding or passing o er the opening 13 located nearest the receiving end of said channel. This results from the fact that the distance between the notch 14 of said type and the leading end thereof is less than the d stance between the adjacent spur 13 and the negative end of the opening 13 over which said type is passing. This type will therefore travel along the channel 10 until it reaches its home opening, and at which the distance between the spur 13 and the negative end of such home opening corresponds with the distance between its notch 14 and the leading end thereof, whereupon by reason of such home opening, as well as all the other openings 13, being of less length than the type the leading end portion of said type Wlll tilt downward through said home opening, and the type will enter the intermediate channel 13, leading from such opening. The tilting action of the type above mentioned results from the fact that the leading end portion of such type overbalances the rear end portion thereof, and the rear end of the opening serves as a fulcrum on which the type thus tilts.

"he foregoing remarks are applicable to each type whether traversing channel 10, channel 4, or channel 10.

The intermediate channels 13 are here shown as each provided with a pocket 14, substantially semicircular in horizontal sec- IIO tion. These pockets are provided where it is desired to reverse the type end for end alter lOiW ing the classifyirg-channels. When such revei' sing oi the type is not desired, the intermediate channels may conduct the type from the cl assi" ing to the delivery channels along any desired lines of movement, as those indicated by the intermediate channel 14. (Shown in Fig. 11 of the drawings.)

When traversing the intermediate channel 13, the type engages the side wall. of the pocket 14 and is guided rearwardly of the d elivery-point of said pocket by the said pocket wall, thus peii'mitting the tea: end of the type to swing downwardly "froin the channel 13 and tilt still i'urt et downwardly on the ridge 14 in :eaciness to? entrance into the delivery-c annel 12, and upon thus entering the delii ei -channel the type will have been accordingly reversed end for end.

I further make use of a series oi storage-receptacles or magazines 12, one for each deliveify-chainzel 12. These magazines are here shown as movable vertically each between guides, as 15, and each is shown as having an air-chamber 15 at its lower portion, access to which chamber may be had, as at the point 15", where a suitable opening may be formed, and means, as the plug 16, may be employed for closing said opening. The upper wall of the chamber 15 serves as a false bottom for the magazne and is suitably inclined to substantially c -1 espond wit a the inclination of the delivery-channel 12, as in dicated in Fig. 10.

The magazines 12 arranged in a tank 16, containing water other analogous element capable of keeping the said magazines afloat when empty, the arrangement or adjustment of said tank, water the; in, and magazines being such that each azine will sink or descend uniformly in the contents of the tank as the type are lodged in such magazine, sink ing as each type is lodged therein a depth just equaling the thickness of the type thus lodged therein, as will be the result by reason oi the cisplacement of the contents of the tank 16 being equal to the weight of the type. he magazine shown in Fig. 3 is empty. In Fig. 2 some ol" he magazines are filled with type and have sunk to the bottom of the tank 16, and others are empty. These magazines when filled with type may be lifted out of the tank 16 and placed in a setting ao'paratus.

The classifying-channels and the deliverychannels are given such an inclination that under normal conditions a type placed therein will not move therealong, but may be caused to move therealong-by imparting to said channels a vibratory, tremulous, or analogous movement, and this may be acccmplished in various ways, as by tapping, jarring, or shaking said channels. To this end I provide the shaker 16 for the classifying-channels and the shaker 16 for the delivery-channels. These shakers are each circular in cross-section, and the surface of each is roughened, as at 17 17. The classifying-channels rest at all times on the roughened portion of the shaker 16, and the delivery-channels rest at all times on the roughened portion of the shaker 16. The shaker 16 is rotatably mounted in the upright bearings 1.7 1.8, and the shaker 16 is likewise mounted in the upright bearings 18 18". The respective shakers 16 16 are rotated rapidly, thereby affecting the classifying and delivery channels after the manner of imparting thereto steadily and evenly a succession of light blows. The shaker 16 is here shown as carrying a pulley 19, to which power and motion may be communicated from any suitable source. The shaker 16 18 also provided with a gear-wheel 19, meshing at all times with the gear 19 at the lower end of the intermediate vertical shaft 20, the

latter 'ournaled in suitable han ers 20 and carrying at its upper end a gear-wheel 20", meshing at all times with the gear-wheel 21 on the shaker 16, and through the medium of the shaft 20 and intermeshing parts just described a rotary movement is imparted to the shaker 16 upon a like movement being imparted to the shaker 16. Shaker 16 further carries a fixed pulley 21, here illustrated as in communication with the driven wheel 21, by means of the belt 22, the said wheel 21 being fixed on the shaft 7 and also being of greater diameter than the pulley 21, to the end that a slow deliberate movement may be imparted to the shaft 7 and that the lowermost type in the type holder 2 may be accordingly acted upon in its delivery to the classified channel 4.

22 represents a tubular overflow for the tank 16.

The respective type-channels embodied in my improved machine and also the typeholder and each of the magazines coincide substantially in width with the width of the type to be distributed.

It will be seen from Fig. 12 of the drawings that the holder 2 is given lateral clearance alternately at the front and rear of the respective sides thereof to permit the type to swing on the fulcrum 6. It will be further seen that a series of type-holders, as 2, may be employed, together with classifying-channels arranged for service in connection with each of them, as illustrated in Fig. 1; also, i

that by properly arranging the intermediate channels the type from any two or more of a series of c'lassifyingchannels may be discharged into common deliverychannels.

t will be observed that my improved typ edistributing machine is particularly well adapted for the purpose for which it is designed and also that the same may be modilied somewhat without material departure from the spirit and principle of my invention. Therefore :I do not wish to be under stood as limiting myself to the precise details of construction herein set forth.

Carrying type lengthwise by gravity along a narrow inclined channel to specially-shaped openings has, as will be seen, many advantages over constructions wherein the type is conveyed sidewise to special openings. The former requires no intricate mechanism, as the type is held to its course by the walls of the channel and feeds downward by its own Weight, Whereas moving type sidewise requires some positive means for carrying the type and holding it absolutely parallel to the openings in the channel-bottom, and complicated and costly mechanism is necessary to give such positive movement to the type and to hold it in exact parallelism with the openings. YVith an inclined channel as wide as the length of the type it would be impossible to move the type downward by gravity alone, (as is done in my case,) as the type would not keep the relative positions on the" channel.

Having fully described my invention,what I claim, and desire to secure by Letters Patent, is

1. In a type-distributing machine, a main type-channel, subordinate, classifying typechannels leading from the main channel, and means for directing type into the subordinate channels according to their thickness, the said subordinate channels having openings in the bottoms thereof, each of said openings being so shaped so as to allow a type correspondingly shaped to drop through the same and to prevent the dropping through of type not correspondingly shaped, substantially as described.

2. In a type-distributing machine, a main type-channel, subordinate, classifying typechannels leading therefrom, a divert-er placed across the entrance to the subordinate channels' and raised at different relative distances above the bottom thereof whereby the type maybe divided into classes, and d.stributing openings in the bottom of the subordinate channels, each of said openings being so shaped as to allow a type correspondingly shaped to drop through the same and to prevent the dropping of typenot so correspcndingly shaped, substantially as described.

' 3. In a type-distributing machine, a main type-channel adapted to carry type length-- wise therealong, a quadrat-opening in said channel of a less length than any type, subordinate type-classifying channels leading from the main channel beyond said quadratopening, means for directing the type into one or the other of said subordinate channels according to thickness, and distributingopenings in the bottom of said subordinate channels, the same being so shaped as to al low a type correspondingly shaped to drop through the same, and to prevent the dropping of type not so correspondingly shaped, substantially as described.

4:. In a type-distributmg machine, a main type-channel adapted to carry type lengthwise therealong, a quadrat-opening in said channel of a less length than any type, subordinate type-classifying channels leading from the main channel beyond said quadratopening, means for directing the type into one or the other of said subordinate channels according to thickness, and distributing openings in the bottom thereof, said openings being oblong and arranged lengthwise of the channel, each of said openings being shorter than a type, and each provided with a spur projecting from its side, the spur in each opening being located differently with respect to the spurs in all other openings, substantially as described.

5. A type-distributing machine having an inclined type-distributing channel, having a floor and side walls, said'channel being approximately the width of the type adapted to be conveyed thereby, and distributingopenings in the floor of the channel, substantially as described. 7

6. A distributing-channel for type-distributing machines, the same being inclined and of a width less than the length of a type, and openings in the bottom of the channel whose greatest length is parallel with the channel, said openings being adapted to allow certain type to pass therethrough and prevent certain other type from so passing, substantially as described.

7. A distributingchannel for type distributing machines of a width narrower than the length of a type, a distributing-opening in the bottom thereof whose greatest length is parallel with the channel, the said opening being shorter than a type, and a spur inwardly projecting from the side of said opening, substantially as described.

8. In a type-distributing machine, the combination with a number of main channels and a plurality of subordinate classifying-channels leading from the main channels having distributing-openings therein, of delivery-channels to a plurality of the corresponding distributingopenings adapted to receive type from a plurality of corresponding distributing-openings in said subordinate channels.

9. A type-distributing machine comprising a series of classifying-channels adap'ted each to be traversed by type and to deliver the same therefrom at various points there along; a series of delivery-channels; and a series of intermediate channels, the latter establishing communication between said classifying and said. delivery channels.

10. A type-distributing machine comprising a series of classifying type-channels; a series of delivery type-channels and a series of intermediate type-channels, the latter establishing communication between said classifying-channels and said delivery-channels, and each provided with means for causing each type as the same moves therealong to undergo an end-for-end reversing movementfcr delivery into its cooperating delivcry-channel.

11. A type-distributing machine comprising a classifying type-channel; means for feeding type into said channel; a delivery type-channel; an intermediate type-channel establishing communication between said classifying-channel and said delivery-channel; and means whereby each type shall be caused to undergo an end-fcr-end reversing movement at a suitable point between the intake-point of said classifying-channel and the delivery end of said delivery-channel.

12. A type-distributing machine comprising a delivery type-channel; a tank at the discharge end of said channel; a buoyant type-magazine in said tank and capable of receiving and storing type one by one from said delivery-channel; and a displaceable element in said tank, the said element permitting said magazine to be adjusted through the reception of one type for the recepticn of the next following type.

13. A type-distributing machine comprising a main classifying-channel having an elongated quadrat-opening near its receiving end of less length than the quadrats to be distributed, and means for feeding type and quadrats into said channel at its receiving end.

14. A type-distributing machine comprising a type-channel adapted to be traver ed by type, and having an elongated opening by way of which certain of the type fed into said channel may escape therefrom by gravity, said opening being of less length than any of the type fed into the channel; and means at said opening for selecting from the type fed into said channel such as are to escape by way of the opening aforenained.

15. A type distributing machine comprising a series of classifying type-channels constructed so as to insure endwise move ment of type therealong and each having an elongated opening by way of which certain of the type fed into said channel may escape therefrom by gravity, said opening being of less length than any of the type fed into the channel; means for directing type into said respective channels according to thickness; and means at the channel-openings aforenamed for selecting from the type fed into any of said channels those that ar I to escape by way of the opening in such channel.

16. A machine for distributing diiTerenmeans for feeding type into said channel;

means for causing such type to move, each by its own gravity, downwardly along said channel, the latter having an elongated opening by way of which certain of the type fed into the channel may escape therefrom by gravity, and being provided with a spur or projection at said opening for selecting from the type fed into said channel those that are to escape by way of the opening aforenamed, said spur or projection being accordingly situated so as to cooperate with the notches of certain of said type.

17. A machine for distributing difierentially-notched type, comprising an inclined type-channel; means for causing type to move, each by its own gravity, downwardly along said channel, the same being provided with a series of discharge-openings; and a series of spurs or projections, the latter being situated, one or more at each of said openings and so as to cooperate with type correspondingly notched, to insure the passage of such correspondingly-notched type through said opening.

18. A machine for distributing notched or recessed type comprising a series of classifying type-channels; means for causing type to enter said channels according to thickness and move therealong, the said channels being each provided with a series of discharge openings; and a series of spurs or projections, one or more at each of said openings, and situated so that each will cooperate with the moving type therein correspondingly notched, for the passage of the type accordingly through said openings.

19. A type distributing machine comprising an inclined type-channel of a width narrower than the length of a type and adapted to thereby convey type lengthwise and having a series of discharge-openings therein of different shapes to each other; means for causing type to move, each by its own gravity downwardly along said channel; and means whereby only specifically-shaped type will pass through the like-shaped openings of said channel.

20. A type distributing machine comprising an inclined channel of a width narrower than the length of the type to be distributed and having a plurality of openings for the escape of the type therefrom, each by its own gravity; means fordelivering said type to the channel end first and means for jarring said channel to cause the type therein to move, each by its own gravity, downwardly therealong, each of said openings being of suitable dimensions to insure the supporting, momentarily, of one end portion of each type while the same is passing downwar ly through its proper channel-opening.

21. A type distributing machine comprising a type-channel; a rotatable part for jarring said channel; and means for imparting motion to said part, the latter also serving to support said channel.

22. A type distributing machine com prising a series of type-channels; a rotatable part tor arrmg said channels; and means for.

lmparting motion to said part, the latter also servmg to support said channels collectively.

23. A type distributing 1118.0l11116 comprising a series of inclined type-channels; a series of lnchned dehvery-channels commuparts supporting each its cooperating series 1 of channels, and being adapted, whenduly moved, to jar or vibrate the same; and means for imparting motion to said parts, respectively.

24. A type distributing machine comprising a series of inclined type-channels; a series of inclined delivery-channels communicating with the first-named series of channels; a plurality of movable parts, one or each series of channels aforenamed, said parts supporting each its cooperating series of channels, and being adapted, when duly moved, to jar or vibrate the same; intermediate elements connecting said arts, and whereby power and motion applie to one of them will be transmitted to the other and means for applying power and motion to one of said parts.

25. A type-distributing machine comprising a classifying-channel, a delivery-channel, and an intermediate channel whereby communication is established between said classitying-channel and said deliver channel.

26. Atype-distributing machine comprising a classifying-channel, a delivery-channel, and an intermediate channel by means of which type may pass from the classifyii'ig to the delivery channel, said intermediate channel being so shaped as to change the course or direction of the type while passing from the classifying-channel to the delivery-channel.

27. A machine for distributing differentially-notched. type comprising an inclined distributing type-channel of a width approximately that of the type, and adapted to be traversed by such type; means for causing the type to move endwise along said channel, each by its own gravity, said channel having a series of discharge-openings in the path of movement of said type; and projections on the side of said openings for cooperating with the notches of the type, said projections be ing so situated as to prevent said type from passing through said openings save when each type reaches the opening through which it is designed to pass.

28. A machine fordistributing differentially-notched type comprising a distributing type-channel having side walls and being of a width approximately the width of a type; means for causing such type to move end- Wise along said channel, a series of longitudinal discharge-openings in the path of movement of the type; and means at said open ings for cooperating with the notches of said type in a manner to insure the escape thereof, from said channel, each only by way of the opening designed. for it.

29. For use in a type-distri buting machine, a type-holder adapted to contain a line of type, and provided with a fulcrum-point on which the contained type may be caused to bear and move.

30. In a type distributing machine, a type-holder adapted. to contain a line of type and provided with a fulcrum-point, and means for causing the contained type to suecessively bear and move on said fulcrum.

31. In a typedistributing machine, a type-holder adapted to contain a line of type, and provided with a fulcrum-point, and an ejector for causing the contained type to suecessively bear anl. move on said fulcrumpoint.

32. In a type distributing machine, a typecha1mel; a platform above and having an eloi'igated opening coinciding with, said channel; a type-holder on said platform at said opening and. adapted to hold a line of type diagonally across said opening; and means for moving, in a horizontal plane, the con tained type successively into alinement with said opening.

33. In a type distributing machine, a type-channel; a type holder situated above said channel and a apted to hold a line of type diagonally with respect to sai'l chan nel; and means for moving, in a horizontal plane, the contained type successively into alinement with said channel.

34:. In a type distributing machine, a type-holder adapted to contain a line of type and provided with a fulcrumoint for the type to successively bear and move on; a pivotally-arranged ejector for causing the type to thus bear and move on said fulcrumpoint; and a pivotally-arranged spring-eontrolled. device for holding back or preventing more than one type at a time from being thus moved.

35. A type-holder for use in a type-distributing machine, the same being adapted to hold a line of type and being constructed so as to hold the type diagonally out of position for delivery therefrom.

36. A type-distributing machine compris ing a type-ch annel and an upright typ e-holder, the latter positioned diagonally with respect to said channel and adapted to contain a line of type; means for n'ioving, in a horizontal plane, the successive lowermost type in said holder into alinement wit-h said channel, for delivery therein; and means for holding the type thus undergoing delivery against rotative movement on its longitudinal axis, while being thus delivered.

37. A type-holder for use in a type-dis tributing machine,,the same comprising a fulcrum-point on which the type are successively moved in a horizontal plane, and being so constructed that the type when thus moved will be held against rotation on its longitudinal axis.

38. In a type distributing machine, a type-channel; a type-holder situated above said channel and adapted to hold a line of type diagonally across said channel; means for moving, in a horizontal plane, the contained type successively into alinement with said channel, and means for preventing more than one of said type at a time from being moved into alinement with said channel.

39. In a type-distributing machine, a platform having an elongated opening; a typeholder on said platform at said opening and adapted to hold a line of type diagonally across said opening for movement successively in a horizontal plane into alinement with such opening; and means for preventing more than one type at a time from being thus nioved. 1

40. In a type-distributing machine, a typechannel; a type-holder for holding a line of type diagonally across said channel; means for moving, in a horizontal plane, the contained type successively to a position from which each type thus moved may fall into said channel, and means for supporting one end of each type while thus falling.

41. In a type-distributing machine, a channel for the conveyance of type having a pocket adapted to engage one end of a type, and to leave the other end of the type free to continue its movement, whereby the type will be reversed end for end, substantially as described.

42. In a type-distributing machine, a channel for the conveyance of type, a channel leading from said first-named channel, and a pocket at the outside intersection of the two channels, said pocket projecting into the line of movement of the type, and being adapted to engage one end of a type and leave the other end thereof free to continue its move ment whereby the type will be reversed end for end, substantially as described.

43. A machine for distributing differentially-notched type comprising an inclined type-channel of a width approximately that of a type to be distributed and having elon gated openings, said openings whose longer axis is parallel to the axis of'the channel having spurs or projections, (one or more for each opening) projecting inwardly from the sides of said opening toward the center of the channel and said channel being so narrow that the side or sides thereof will cause the type to pass over the spurs, all to the end, that as the special notches on the type come directly over the opening having corresponding projections, the type will fall through the opening for which it is designed therefor.

44. A type-distributing machine comprising a type-holder so positioned that the type contained therein. will feed downward by gravity; an inclined type-channel so positioned as to receive type from said holder, said holder being placed above said channel and out of alinement with the same; and means for turning type successively around a fulcrum-point connected with said holder, so as to bring them into alinem'ent with said holder.

45. A machine for distributing differentially-notched type uniform in length, comprising a type-channel having elongated discharge-openings of less length than the type; and means for causing the type to move along said channel, said'openings being of suitable form to. insure the supporting, momentarily, of one end portion of each type while the other end is falling through said opening.

46. A type-channel for type-distributing machines, said channel having sorting-openings in the bottom thereof, and being approximately the width of a type at such openings, each of said openings having a type-support between its ends, the distance between the said support and the end of the opening being less than one-half the length of a type, substantially as described.

47. In a type-distributing machine the combination with a number of main channels and a plurality of subordinate channels having openings therein, substantially as described, of delivery-channels so positioned under said openings as to receive type passing through the same.

48. In a type-distributing machine the combination with a main channel and a number of minor channels having distributingopenings, substantially as described, of an intermediate channel, whereby type passing through said openings will be conveyed through these intermediate channels to a de livery-channel.

49. A type-distributing machine having an inclined type-distributing channel provided with distributing-openings in the bottom thereof, said openings being arranged lengthwise of the channel, each of said openings being shorter than the type distributed, but longer than one-half the length of the type whereby the type will swing down at one end through said openings, a selective and supporting spur projecting inward from one side of each of said openings, the spur in each opening being differently located with respect to the spurs in all of the other openings in the channel, said spurs corresponding in shape to the notches in the edges of the type to be distributed, whereby the type will swing down through the openings when the notches therein register with the properlyplaced spurs.

50. A type-distributing machine comprising a main type-channel, classifying typechannels leading from the main channel, means for directing type into the subordinate nels for distributing the type from said channelsaccording t0 the shape of the type in side elevation.

D. BRAINERD RAY.

Witnesses:

ALBERT C. TANNER,

BEARDSLEY. 

